The Effect of Steroid Use on Complications after Distal Radius Fracture Repair

Background Distal radius fractures (DRFs) are the most common fracture of the upper extremity. Given that steroids are one of the most commonly prescribed drugs and are usually prescribed for chronic conditions, steroid use represents a key factor to consider in how to optimize perioperative outcomes. Questions/Purposes The purpose of this study was to investigate if there are differences in perioperative outcomes for patients undergoing DRF open reduction and internal fixation based on preoperative steroid use. Patients and Methods Adult patients who underwent operative treatment for DRF from 2007 to 2018 were identified in a national database. Patients were divided into two cohorts as follows: (1) no steroid usage and (2) preoperative steroid usage. In this analysis, various postoperative complications, as well as extended length of stay and reoperation, were assessed. Bivariate analyses and multivariable logistical regression were performed. Results Among a total of 16,505 patients undergoing operative treatment for DRF, 16,145 patients (97.8%) did not have steroid usage and 360 (2.2%) had steroid usage. Following adjustment, an increased risk of extended length of hospital stay greater than 3 days (odds ratio [OR] = 1.646; p = 0.012) was seen in the steroid usage group compared with those who did not use steroids within 30 days of surgery. Conclusion Preoperative steroid use is associated with increased length of stay over 3 days after DRF open reduction and internal fixation surgery but is not associated with any of the other complications that were assessed in this study.